WinStar Farm, owned by Bill Casner and Kenny Troutt, is donating $100,000 to establish a Thoroughbred industry fund to assist in the relief efforts associated with the Indian Ocean tsunami. The Keeneland Foundation has volunteered its resources to coordinate and administer the fund. Proceeds will be given to Action Against Hunger and Direct Relief International, two agencies recognized worldwide for their ability to quickly mobilize urgent resources, like food and medical care, in the aftermath of natural disasters. Cash, check and credit card donations will be accepted at Keeneland's upcoming January Horses of All Ages Sale that begins Monday and continues through Saturday. Consignors also may donate a portion of proceeds from their sale receipts. To make a donation at the sale, contributors should visit the sales counter located in the sales pavilion. Credit card donations may be faxed to 859-288-4249. A PDF-formatted contribution form can be found on Keeneland's Web site."The Thoroughbred industry is an international community. This is our way of showing support for the people of southern Asia and nearby countries as they deal with the aftermath of this tragedy," said Keeneland president and CEO Nick Nicholson. According to the World Health Organization, up to 5 million people around the tsunami-struck region are lacking in basic necessities such as clean water, shelter, food, sanitation and health care. "The generosity and compassion of people in the Thoroughbred industry runs deep," Nicholson continued. "We hope that our efforts can help bring some measure of comfort in this time of dire need." As a non-profit organization, donations made to The Keeneland Foundation are tax-deductible.
Previously, Coolmore Stud announced that a nomination in each of its stallions world-wide would be auctioned online, with the proceeds to benefit the tsunami relief fund.